Ohio State has just secured a key addition to their roster, and it's a move that could spark some interesting debates among fans. The Buckeyes have landed former Baylor kicker Connor Hawkins, who is set to be their sole kicker for the upcoming season.
Hawkins, a redshirt sophomore, brings an impressive track record. In 2025, he converted an impressive 81.8% of his field goals, with a perfect record from inside the 40-yard line. His longest successful kick was a remarkable 54-yard conversion. These stats showcase his accuracy and potential to be a game-changer in crucial moments.
But here's where it gets controversial: Hawkins is currently the only kicker on the Ohio State roster. With Jayden Fielding graduating and Jackson Courville transferring to Tulane, the Buckeyes are expected to bring in more competition for the kicking role. And this is the part most people miss: Ohio State has already offered a top kicker from the 2026 class, Jacobo Eccheveria, who boasts an impressive 12 out of 13 field goal success rate.
So, will Hawkins face competition from within the team, or will Ohio State look to the transfer portal or high school ranks for more kickers? Only time will tell.
This move is part of a larger transfer strategy for Ohio State, which has seen them bring in 12 transfers this offseason alone. From tight ends to defensive tackles and safeties, the Buckeyes are building a formidable team. But will this strategy pay off on the field? Only time will tell, and we can't wait to see how this plays out.
What do you think? Is Ohio State's transfer strategy a smart move, or are they taking a risk? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
